Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken
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Recipe Overview
Overview
Caramelized Ginger Chicken is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. The combination of tender chicken thighs, aromatic ginger, and garlic creates a mouthwatering base that is both comforting and satisfying. The addition of fish sauce introduces a depth of umami that is hard to resist, while the brown sugar contributes to the beautiful caramelization that gives this dish its name.
The cooking process is straightforward and quick, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. As the chicken cooks, it absorbs the flavors of the ginger and garlic, and the sauce thickens to a sticky, sweet glaze. This dish not only looks appealing but also offers a wonderful balance of flavors that will impress anyone at the dinner table.
Serving this dish with rice is a must, as it helps soak up the delicious sauce. The vibrant colors from the red peppers and cilantro add a fresh touch, making it visually appealing as well. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this Caramelized Ginger Chicken is sure to be a hit, bringing a taste of Vietnam to your kitchen.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Trim fat from a pound of boneless skinless chicken thighs and cut into slightly larger than bite-sized pieces.
Heat the wok until it starts to smoke.
Add a little oil and the chicken pieces to the wok, cooking until they have nice color on the outside.
Remove chicken, wipe the pan, and add a half sliced onion, cooking for 2 minutes.
Add 1/4 cup of chopped ginger and 3-4 tablespoons of minced garlic to the pan and stir.
Kill the heat, then add 2 tablespoons of fish sauce and 1/2 cup of brown sugar.
Tip: Use 10 shakes of fish sauce for every tablespoon to get the right flavor.
Turn the heat back on and let the mixture bubble and thicken.
Return the chicken and onion to the pan, stirring to combine.
Cook for 6-10 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens and caramelizes.
Tip: If the pan gets dry, add a splash of water to keep the sauce from burning.
Add thinly sliced red peppers and cilantro, mixing well.
Tip: Add thinly sliced peppers and cilantro at the end for freshness.
Serve the caramelized Vietnamese chicken in a bowl.
Plate the chicken with rice for serving.
Tip: Serve with rice to complement the dish.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Fish
→ Substitution: Soy Sauce
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Fish sauce adds a unique umami flavor that enhances the dish.
- •Caramelization occurs when sugar is heated, creating a rich flavor and color.
- •Using boneless skinless chicken thighs keeps the dish tender and juicy.
- •Ginger and garlic are essential aromatics that elevate the overall flavor profile.
